Ford’s renowned specialist motorsport division in Boreham, Essex, was tasked with developing a rally-specification kit car based on a road-going production model, resulting in a kit car design based on the Ford Puma. The two versions were designated “VK14” and “VK16”, later sold as the S1400 and S1600. Both body shells were identical, yet the S1600 had a larger wheel track to allow for wider wheels and tyres (as per FIA regulations). Competing in different classes, both models were fitted with engines closely related to the 1.7-litre Ford Zetec engine that was downsized to the relevant capacity. The S1400 had a horsepower rating of 150, while the S1600 boasted 200 horsepower. Both used a front-wheel-drive set-up and were equipped with a Hewland six-speed close ratio “dog-leg” gearbox.

This Puma S1600 is an early example and was first registered by Ford Motor Co Ltd. with the registration number “V699 MEV” on 14 September 1999. The Puma was built for application on the rally circuit and its first documented race came at the hands of a future world champion. The Puma was entered into the Memorial Bettega in Bologna, Italy in December 1999 and driven by a young Sébastien Loeb.

In May 2000, the car raced under the Carlos Sainz Junior Team at the Rally Mediterráneo-Airtel and was driven by Txus Jaoi and David Moreno. The pair finished 20th overall and 9th in class. Five months later, on 19 October, the Puma was entered in the 2000 edition of the Sanremo Rallye, with Simon Mauger and Scott Poxon behind the wheel. They finished in a respectable position of 40th overall and 4th in class.

Exported from the United Kingdom on 8 December 2000, little is known of this Puma S1600’s history until it was acquired by the consigning owner. Under their care, the fuel cell was replaced with a new unit that expires in 2026. Last fielded by Paula Ramos at the Máster de Galicia on 25 February 2023, this S1600 placed 32nd. Today, the car sports Melina Blue paintwork with the livery with which it was last seen in competition.

This 1999 Ford Puma S1600 is an exciting offering sure to bring smiles on or off the asphalt, while representing a fascinating link to the up-and-coming Loeb on his way to becoming the most successful driver in World Rally Championship history.